Quick Q&A: Nia Ford, Brooklyn Center track and field

Ford is her school's Athena Award recipient for her efforts in athletics and in the classroom. The award luncheon is May 5 in Bloomington.

Q: Did you ever make it a goal to win the Athena Award?

A: Yes, it became a goal of mine when my track and field coach told me about it in ninth grade.

Q: How does it feel to receive an award that recognizes your body of work?

A: It's exciting. I think back to how far I've gotten in soccer and dance and track and field. All the things I've achieved have given me a lot of pride.

Q: You also received your school's DIG award. What does that stand for?

A: Dignity, integrity and grace. You win it for displaying all these things in whatever sports you're in.

A: I took third at the section meet last year in both the 100- and 300-meter hurdles, and I'm excited because I know I could go to state in both events. Both of the girls who beat me in the 100 were seniors. Both girls who beat me in the 300 are still there, so hopefully I can work up enough endurance to win.

Q: What is your plan for college?

A: I am going to run track at Hamline University. I'd like to study creative writing or history, but I'm most interested in education. I'd like to teach at the high school level and maybe get my Ph.D. and teach college students.